Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Cajun Chicken with Bell Peppers is a bold, colorful, and satisfying one-skillet dish that’s full of smoky spice and vibrant flavor. Juicy chicken is coated in Cajun seasoning and sautéed with tender bell peppers and onions for a quick, protein-packed meal that’s perfect over rice, pasta, or in wraps. It’s easy, healthy, and bursting with Southern flair.
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (sliced)Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)bell peppers (red, yellow, or green, thinly sliced)onion (sliced)olive oilgarlic (minced)saltblack pepperfresh parsley or green onions (for garnish)optional: lemon or lime wedges for serving
directions
In a bowl, toss sliced chicken with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add chicken and cook for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if needed, then sauté bell peppers and onions until tender, about 5–7 minutes.
Add minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
Return chicken to the skillet and toss everything together. Cook for another 1–2 minutes to blend flavors.
Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions and serve hot.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4.Preparation time: 10 minutesCooking time: 15–20 minutesTotal time: 25–30 minutes
Variations
Add mushrooms or zucchini for extra vegetables.
Serve over rice, pasta, cauliflower rice, or in tortillas.
Use shrimp instead of chicken for a seafood twist.
Top with shredded cheese or avocado for added richness.
Spice it up with extra cayenne or hot sauce.
storage/reheating
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.Reheat in a skillet or microwave until warmed through.Can be frozen for up to 2 months—thaw before reheating.
FAQs
What’s in Cajun seasoning?
Usually a blend of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, cayenne, salt, and pepper.
Is it spicy?
It has a moderate kick—adjust to your taste.
Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Yes, just add it at the end to warm through.
Can I meal prep this?
Absolutely! It reheats well and works great for lunches.
What peppers work best?
A mix of red, yellow, and green gives great color and flavor.
Conclusion
Cajun Chicken with Bell Peppers is a fast, flavorful meal that’s as nutritious as it is delicious. With tender chicken, sautéed veggies, and bold spices, it’s a go-to recipe for busy nights or anytime you’re craving a little Southern-inspired heat.
Print
Cajun Chicken with Bell Peppers
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Chicken Recipes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Cajun
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Cajun Chicken with Bell Peppers is a spicy, savory one-pan meal that’s ready in 30 minutes. Tender chicken strips are coated in Cajun seasoning and sautéed with sweet bell peppers and onions for a vibrant, satisfying dish. Perfect served over rice, pasta, or wrapped in tortillas!
Ingredients
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1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, sliced into strips
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2 tbsp Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
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2 tbsp olive oil, divided
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1 red bell pepper, sliced
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1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
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1 green bell pepper, sliced
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1 small red onion, thinly sliced
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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Optional: fresh parsley or green onions for garnish
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Optional: lemon or lime wedges for serving
Instructions
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Season the chicken:
In a bowl, toss chicken strips with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and Cajun seasoning. Let sit for 10 minutes to marinate (or up to overnight for deeper flavor). -
Cook the chicken:
Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken in a single layer and cook for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through. Remove and set aside. -
Sauté the veggies:
In the same skillet, add the sliced bell peppers, onion, and a pinch of salt. Cook for 5–6 minutes until slightly softened. Add garlic and cook for another 1 minute. -
Combine and finish:
Return the chicken to the pan and toss everything together. Cook for another 2 minutes to combine and heat through. -
Serve:
Garnish with parsley or green onions and a squeeze of fresh lemon or lime if desired. Serve over rice, in wraps, or on its own!
Notes
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Make it creamy by adding a splash of cream or coconut milk at the end.
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Want it extra spicy? Add a pinch of cayenne or crushed red pepper.
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Leftovers make great meal-prep bowls for lunch!
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